What Is The Difference Between Private And Public Colleges?

College is an exciting time for anyone. It’s a chance to focus on your interests and hone your skills for the future career that you want. There can be a lot to think about when it comes to applying for college. One of the biggest considerations is where to study.

During this decision-making process, you have likely come across two types of colleges, public and private institutions. If you’re wondering whether to choose a public or private college, we look at the key differences so you can find the right one for you.

What Is A Private College?

Private colleges are independent, meaning they don’t rely on government funding. Instead, their sources of funding come from costs and tuition fees alone. The cost of attendance varies between each private college, but you can expect higher tuition fees than at a public college.

Private colleges are most likely the types of colleges that you are familiar with, and there is a reason for that. Some of the best colleges in the country are private, and they offer certain benefits that can’t be found in more public institutions. Unique degree programs, smaller class size and interesting extracurricular activities to name just a few.

Though you can get a quality education at a public institution, private colleges on the other hand, really tailor their experience to you. These institutions, like Citi College, were designed to get students career-ready as their streamlined courses focus on practical and industry-focussed skills that can be applied to many relevant roles.

A private college will offer diploma programs that may not be as easily found elsewhere.

Private colleges are certainly worth attending if you have the means, but that doesn’t mean that those who attend a public college aren’t receiving a great education.

What Is A Public College?

A public college is open to the public as it’s funded by the government. This often means lower tuition fees and more available financial aid.

Though there may be larger class sizes and fewer programs to choose from, public colleges are a fantastic option for students looking to get a great education but can’t afford to study privately.

Public colleges have often been subject to stereotyping in a number of popular movies and television shows but these often couldn’t be further from the truth. Public colleges are a great choice for those who want to study there.

For those that still have their heart set on a private college, public colleges can act as a great pathway toward a private course. They can help you bridge any gaps in your qualifications that you may have and therefore make you more eligible for the private course you’re interested in.

Making The Decision

Not only do you have to decide which course to choose, a choice that will impact your career for years to come. You will also need to decide which college is the right choice to help you reach those career goals. If you’re weighing up the benefits between a private and public college, there are some key things to consider.

Cost

Public colleges are often much cheaper. However, if you do have the means to go to a private college that you’re interested in, it may not be worth the savings to miss out on this opportunity. Keep in mind, private colleges also offer financial aid.

Though tuition fees and college costs are the main factors, there is also the cost of living to take into consideration. Perhaps the private college is nearer home and you won’t need to find somewhere to live, maybe the public college is in a city that’s cheaper to live in than the one you’re currently looking at.

Location

When considering going to college and living away from home, you want to make sure you’re in the right location for you.

Could a private college in Toronto be perfect for you because you’ve always loved the city? Maybe you’re more about rural life and want a public college in a smaller town. Whatever you prefer, you shouldn’t disregard the location over other aspects. After all, you’re the one that has to live there.

Subject

As mentioned above, subjects that you can study at a public college may be more limited, but it all depends on what it is you want to do.

For example, if you just want to study business as you aren’t one hundred per cent sure about what you want to do as a career, then most public colleges will have you covered. However, where private colleges truly shine is with a wider variety of more in-depth courses and the career services that are provided to help you find a job.

It’s unlikely that you will find a niche business degree at most public colleges, so this might be all you need to know when asking yourself whether to go public or private.

Find The Right Course For You With Citi College

Though you may have a public college in mind and are enticed by the price, it’s important not to rule out private colleges altogether.

Citi College understands the Canadian career market and can propel you into a number of interesting and high-paying careers. With programs in healthcare, business and much more, you can find lucrative career opportunities with Citi College.

With campuses in Toronto and Mississauga, you can study an exciting course in an amazing city. Contact a member of our team today and find out more.